Connect Leviticus 21:6 with 1 Peter 2:9 on the priesthood of believers. Setting the Stage Leviticus 21 opens a window into God’s heart for the Old-Covenant priesthood. Verse 6 lays down the non-negotiables for Aaron’s sons: “They are to be holy to their God and not profane the name of their God. For they present the offerings by fire to the LORD, the food of their God; so they must be holy.” (Leviticus 21:6) Right away we see three core ideas: • Holiness is mandatory, not optional. • God’s name must never be dragged through the mud. • Priests draw near on behalf of others by offering the LORD’s food. These standards were literal, historical requirements for real men serving in a real tabernacle. Yet the Spirit preserved these words because they echo forward to everyone who belongs to Christ. A New Testament Echo “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” (1 Peter 2:9) Peter, writing to scattered believers, lifts the Levitical job description and applies it wholesale to the church. A breathtaking shift has taken place: • Every born-again believer is now counted among the priests. • Our identity is wrapped up in holiness, royalty, and mission. • We exist publicly “to proclaim the virtues” of the One who saved us. Key Parallels Between the Two Passages Holiness • Leviticus 21:6 – “they must be holy.” • 1 Peter 2:9 – “a holy nation.” God never relaxes His standard; He relocates it into transformed hearts (Hebrews 8:10). Representation • Old priests carried Israel’s worship into the sanctuary. • Believers carry Christ’s presence into the world (2 Corinthians 5:20). Sacrifice • Levitical priests offered literal grain and burnt offerings. • New-Covenant priests offer “living sacrifices” (Romans 12:1) and “a sacrifice of praise” (Hebrews 13:15-16). Reverence for God’s Name • “Not profane the name of their God” (Leviticus 21:6). • “Proclaim the virtues of Him” (1 Peter 2:9). Our speech and conduct either honor or dishonor the reputation of our Lord. From Shadow to Substance Old Covenant • Limited to Aaron’s descendants. • Daily animal sacrifices. • Earthly sanctuary (Hebrews 9:1-10). New Covenant • Open to every believer (Galatians 3:28). • One perfect sacrifice—Christ Himself (Hebrews 10:10-14). • Heavenly access through Jesus our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). The Levitical system was never a dead-end; it was a God-inspired picture book. Each ritual page pointed toward the once-for-all work of Jesus, who “has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father” (Revelation 1:5-6). Living Out Our Priestly Calling Today Practical ways to keep Leviticus 21:6 alive in a 1 Peter 2:9 world: • Pursue personal holiness—guard eyes, words, motives (1 Thessalonians 4:3-7). • Maintain a tender conscience so God’s name is never profaned in daily life. • Offer continual praise, thanksgiving, and intercession—our spiritual incense. • Serve others sacrificially; good works remain pleasing “food” to God (Hebrews 13:16). • Boldly declare God’s excellencies—tell your redemption story whenever doors open. Conclusion The priests of Leviticus were set apart to guard God’s holiness and mediate His blessings. In Christ, that sacred calling rests on every believer. Stand firm in holy identity, keep God’s reputation untarnished, and let the aroma of your spiritual sacrifices fill the world with the fragrance of Christ. |
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